would it not be hilarious, if I continued to back read and found out that airpots / colanders and how they affect soil was known back in the 1930's or 1920's or even the 1800's.Seems as though we need a more Science based - How to Bonsai - filled with Science for Horticulture and some form of Art training for the Design.

would it not be hilarious, if I continued to back read and found out that airpots / colanders and how they affect soil was known back in the 1930's or 1920's or even the 1800's.Seems as though we need a more Science based - How to Bonsai - filled with Science for Horticulture and some form of Art training for the Design.

Wow, talk about a backward hobby - chuckle.Later.Khaimraj

Khaimraj,

Isn't this all a snapshot/synopsis or proof that most things in life operate in cycles. The old ideas are 'rediscovered' and made vogue once more...sometimes out of necessity, sometimes by accident and at other times from learning - from the past. The use of colanders like fashion demonstrate that repetition is always occurring.

i dont see any references to many bonsai techniques discussed these days being claimed as 'new' - many are tried and tested, lots are proven already.....they are basically being shared with people who may have missed them 1st, 2nd or 3rd time round and there is nothing wrong with that if they are proven to work well.

in Fine Art, we look for efficiency of technique. I also look for the same in Bonsai. So if I can maximise the use of my soil mix, keep my trees healthy, and still build good designs, I will always look for the most efficient way to get there.

The reason, I work with seed / cuttings, is because , as I stated before, it is closest to the blank canvas I am accustommed to in oil painting. Plus, I really don't like scars or wounds on my trees, since in my climate, insects love a wound. So I would look for the most natural way to grow a seedling into good design.This is why my concave pruner is the smallest size normally made, no large cuts, as the design is drawn to guide the seed.

I am amazed at how much was already explored so long ago.Hope that explains.Later.Khaimraj